2016 NBA Mock Draft: Lakers Slide, Celtics nab Simmons

Zimmerman was one of the top high school recruits when he signed with UNLV but a season full of turmoil for the program didn’t help his NBA cause. Coach Dave Rice was let go mid season and although that ultimately helped open up Zimmerman’s offensive game, the change is still hard on a freshman. <p>Zimmeran stands 7-0 and has the ability to face up his opponents and use quickness to blow by them and finish at the rim. There aren’t many seven footers who we can say that about. His back to the basket post moves will need some time to develop, but he’s already got a smooth jump shot and can even step out and knock down a 3-pointer when the opportunity presents itself.</p> <p>The 19-year old averaged 10.5 points, 8.7 rebounds and two blocks a game in less than 27 minutes per contest. The San Antonio Spurs are well-known for turning these late round picks into viable contributors and with Tim Duncan headed off to pasture sometime very soon, bringing in a young stud to groom at the center position seems like the most Spursy thing ever. I’m sure in two or three years we will all be laughing about how the Spurs got Zimmerman with a “meaningless” late first round pick — I’m terrified already.</p> <p><em>To read more about Stephen Zimmerman, <a href=. C. UNLV. Stephen Zimmerman. 29. player. 29